The start of pre-season under Erik ten Hag only started on Monday and already the dark clouds are gathering over Manchester United.
Ten Hag’s official first day was supposed to herald the start of a new, exciting era at Old Trafford after a dismal campaign where United threatened to reach their nadir with every passing week. And often succeeded.
There has been extensive talk about rebuilds, squad overhauls and even of revolution. Instead, that familiar feeling of inertia has enveloped United and its fanbase as the new manager gets to work.
The Dutchman arrived at the club’s Carrington training ground in the back of an SUV at 8am on Monday morning and was later greeted by the squad – minus the players involved in the Nations League until earlier this month and a few high-profile departures – which failed to hit the minimum standard of Champions League qualification and ended with United’s lowest ever Premier League points tally.
It is for this reason the excitement which greeted the unveiling of Ten Hag, who started in the job before his contract began, has been replaced by growing frustration and discontent – not directed at the new boss, but at those above him.
Yet, as priority transfer target Frenkie de Jong edges ever closer to penning a move to Manchester, a thin wisp of light has managed to seep through the dark clouds at Old Trafford and provided hope.
Although he will cost the club upwards of £70million, the Dutchman offers the Glazers a chance to placate the ill-feeling at the club. The Red Devils are also in advanced talks with Feyenoord left back Tyrell Malacia.
However, while the United chiefs wrestle to finalise the deal with Barcelona, the once-promising pursuits of Jurrien Timber, Christian Eriksen and Antony have fallen by the wayside.
Erik ten Hag arrived at Carrington for the start of pre-season training on Monday morning
David de Gea was one of the star Manchester United players who arrived on Monday
Fringe players such as Phil Jones were also pictured arriving back at the training ground
Zero transfers made
Despite the advanced negotiations for De Jong and Malacia, United have not made a single signing in the transfer window so far.
News broke on Tuesday night that United have agreed a £13million deal for Feyenoord left back Malacia, while De Jong’s impending arrival from Barcelona will solve the club’s long-term midfield crisis.
But Ten Hag needs more and he will have wanted the majority of business done before…